Immediate Weight Bearing and Range of Motion After Internal Fixation of Unstable Ankle Fractures: A Retrospective Controlled Study

Category: Ankle; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Ankle fractures are the third most common adult fractures. Further, they are the second most common fracture type to require inpatient admission, behind only hip fractures, despite occurring in a population on average nearly 30 years younger. There is evidence that early or immediate weight bearing and range of motion may be safe following ankle fracture fixation, but existing studies are small and largely exclude patients with syndesmotic or posterior malleolar fixation. We therefore studied the safety of immediate weight bearing as tolerated (IWBAT) and immediate range of motion (IROM) following open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of unstable ankle fractures in a diverse cohort and attempted to identify risk factors for complications. Methods: We performed a retrospective case-control study. Out of 268 patients who underwent primary ORIF of an unstable ankle fracture from 2013-18, we identified 133 (49.6%) who were IWBAT and IROM. The treating surgeon excluded patients from IWBAT if they had an ipsilateral leg injury requiring non-weight bearing, a large displaced posterior malleolus fragment, or Maisonneuve injury with fracture of the proximal fibula. We used propensity-score matching to identify 172 controls who were non-weight bearing (NWB) and no range of motion for 6 weeks post-op. We reviewed medical records and radiographs for demographic, injury and treatment characteristics. Our primary outcome was complications. We compared demographics, injury characteristics, treatment episode, and complications between the IWBAT and NWB groups and performed within group analysis to identify risk factors for complications. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The groups did not differ significantly in age, BMI, Charleston Comorbidity Index (CCI), smoking status, diabetes status, malleoli involved, percentages undergoing medial malleolus (60.9% IWBAT vs. 51.7% NWB, p=0.11), posterior malleolus (24.1% IWBAT, 26.7% NWB, p=0.59), or syndesmosis fixation (41.4% IWBAT, 42.4% NWB, p=0.85). There was no significant difference in total complications (9.8% IWBAT vs. 12.8% NWB, p=0.41), nonoperative complications (6.8% IWBAT vs. 8.7% NWB, p=0.53), or operative complications (3.8% IWBAT vs. 4.1% NWB, p=0.89). We did not identify any factors associated with increased complication risk, including posterior malleolus or syndesmosis fixation, diabetes, age, CCI or pre-injury assisted ambulation. Conclusion: IWBAT and IROM may be safe following ankle fracture ORIF in a broader patient population than previously believed. We did not identify specific risk factors for post-operative complications. Further study on patient selection may allow for more extensive use of this protocol to reduce the morbidity associated with unstable ankle fractures. [Table: see text]

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2.4mm Non-Cannulated Screws are Non-Inferior to 4.0mm Cannulated Screws for Medial Malleolar Fixation in Unstable Ankle Fractures

Foot & Ankle Orthopaedics ◽

10.1177/2473011420s00214 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 5 (4) ◽

pp. 2473011420S0021

Author(s):

Brianna R. Fram ◽

Joseph L. Schmitz ◽

Ryan G. Rogero ◽

Gerard Chang ◽

James Krieg

Keyword(s):

Weight Bearing ◽

Ankle Fractures ◽

Medial Malleolus ◽

Cannulated Screws ◽

Hardware Failure ◽

Posterior Malleolus ◽

Diabetes Status ◽

Loss Of Reduction ◽

Significant Difference ◽

Operative Complications

Category: Ankle; Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Ankles fractures are the third most common adult fractures, representing significant cost to society. This makes the effectiveness of ankle open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) an important area for study. The majority of existing literature on medial malleolus fracture fixation involves biomechanical testing in synthetic bone or cadaveric models. We sought to compare the clinical efficacy of medial malleolar fixation with 2.4mm non-cannulated screws to 4.0mm cannulated screws by evaluating rates of loss of reduction and hardware failure. Methods: We performed a propensity-score-matched retrospective cohort study on patients who underwent ORIF of an unstable ankle fracture with fixation of the medial malleolus with either 2.4mm non-cannulated (N=51 ankles in 51 patients) or 4.0mm cannulated (N=60 ankles in 60 patients) screws. Vertically oriented medial malleolus fractures or those in which additional fixation was used were excluded. We identified post-operative complications and compared follow-up radiographs with immediate post-operative radiographs for signs of hardware failure or loss of reduction. Mean age was 50.2 years (SD 13.9). There was no significant difference between groups in age, BMI, Charleston Comorbidity Index (CCI), smoking or diabetes status. The 2.4mm patients were more likely to require syndesmosis fixation (56.9% 2.4mm, 30.0% 4.0mm, p=0.007) but not posterior malleolus fixation (25.5% 2.4mm, 28.3% 4.0mm, p=0.831). Most medial malleoli were fixed with 2 screws (1 screw 9.8%, 2 screws 90.2% 2.4mm, 1 screw 7.0%, 2 screws 93.0% 4.0mm, p=0.60). Results: There was no significant difference in total complications (7.8% 2.4mm, 15.0% 4.0mm, p=0.375), operative complications (5.9% 2.4mm, 5.0% 4.0mm, p=1.00), loss of medial reduction (3.9% 2.4mm, 6.7% 4.0mm, p=0.69), or medial hardware breakage (2.0% 2.4mm, 0% 4.0mm, p=0.45). The two patients in the 2.4mm screw group with loss of medial malleolus fixation were noncompliant with non-weight bearing restrictions and failed by screw backing out, while the 4 patients in the 4.0mm group failed by medial fracture fragment displacement around stable screws. The 4.0mm group had more nonoperative complications (0% 2.4mm, 10.0% 4.0mm, p=0.031); one of these was delayed union of the medial malleolus, while the remainder were delayed lateral wound healing or sural or superficial peroneal distribution paresthesias, which appeared unrelated to medial fixation type. Conclusion: When used for medial malleolus fixation in unstable ankle fractures, 2.4mm non-cannulated screws do not have higher rates of loss of reduction or hardware failure compared to 4.0mm cannulated screws. Given their decreased cost and equivalent ease of insertion, surgeons should consider their use when fixing unstable ankle fractures.

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Incidence and Predictive Factors of Tibial Fracture with Occult Posterior Ankle Fractures

Journal of Healthcare Engineering ◽

10.1155/2021/4392595 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 2021 ◽

pp. 1-6

Author(s):

Dafeng Wang ◽

Jie Yang ◽

Xiaomin Dong ◽

Shengtuo Zhou ◽

Chaonan Wang

Keyword(s):

Regression Analysis ◽

Predictive Factors ◽

Ankle Fracture ◽

Tibial Fracture ◽

Tibial Fractures ◽

Ankle Fractures ◽

Imaging Data ◽

Fracture Group ◽

Posterior Malleolus ◽

Significant Difference

Background. Few studies exist on the predictive factors of tibial fractures with hidden posterior ankle fractures. Objective. To study the incidence and predictive factors of tibial fractures with occult posterior ankle fractures. Methods. Tibial fracture patients were prospectively selected who were admitted to our hospital from January 2016 to May 2021 and their general clinical data, X-ray images, CT images, and other imaging data were collected and then divided them into posterior malleolus fracture group and nonposterior malleolus fracture group according to the presence or absence of posterior malleolus fractures. Multivariate regression analysis and receiver operating curves (ROC) were performed to analyze the influencing factors of tibial fracture with occult posterior ankle fracture. Results. CT showed that 25 (13.44%) patients had occult posterior ankle fractures among 186 patients with tibial fracture. There was no significant difference in gender, age, and locations of tibial fracture between the two groups ( P > 0.05 ). There were statistical differences in the types, locations, and lengths of patients with tibial fracture but without posterior malleolus fractures. The length of the tibia fracture group was significantly lower than the tibia with posterior ankle fracture group ( P < 0.05 ). Logistics regression analysis showed that tibial fracture with occult posterior ankle fracture was not significantly correlated with gender, age, and location of tibial fracture ( P > 0.05 ), but was significantly correlated with tibial fracture type, location, and length (HR = 1.830, P = 0.035 ; HR = 5.161, P = 0.004 ; HR = 1.126, P = 0.030 ). The ROC curve showed that the AUC of length of tibial fracture with occult posterior ankle fracture was 0.599. The YD index suggested that the best cut point for the prediction of tibial fracture with occult posterior ankle fracture was above 13.18%. The sensitivity and specificity of spiral tibial fracture and distal 1/3 tibial fracture for prediction were 88.00% and 63.35%, 92.00%, and 58.39%, respectively, which was significantly higher than that of tibial fracture length ( P < 0.05 ). Conclusion. Patients with tibial fractures have a higher incidence of occult posterior ankle fractures. Spiral tibial fractures and distal 1/3 tibial fractures have a higher predictive value for tibial fracture with occult posterior ankle fractures and can help clinical detection as soon as possible, which is a more accurate and appropriate treatment.

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Early weight bearing compared with non-weight bearing functional mobilization after operative treatment of an ankle fracture

Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal ◽

10.3126/jcmsn.v7i1.5972 ◽

2012 ◽

Vol 7 (1) ◽

pp. 40-46

Author(s):

KP Paudel

Keyword(s):

Internal Fixation ◽

Operative Treatment ◽

Ankle Fracture ◽

Subjective Evaluation ◽

Weight Bearing ◽

Randomized Study ◽

T Test ◽

Ankle Fractures ◽

Early Weight Bearing

Ankle fractures are the most common types of fractures treated in orthopaedics. When to begin ankle movement and weight bearing and the type of immobilizing devices to use post-operatively have had more intense clinical study than most other aspects of ankle fracture treatment. Aim of this study is to compare the results of two functional methods of post-operative treatment in internally fixed ankle fractures, i.e. one after early weight bearing using walking plaster and the other after non-weight bearing functional mobilization in the first six weeks following stable internal fixation. This is a prospective, non-randomized study. Between March 2004 and February 2006, thirty- five patients with displaced ankle fractures treated by internal fixation were assigned in a way that every alternate patient fell in different groups. Group A patients, 17, were managed with a below-knee walking plaster and group B patients, 18 with non-weight bearing mobilization with crutches. Five patients were lost in follow up and 30 were followed regularly as in the protocol. There was a temporary benefit in subjective evaluation (63 v 48 points, student t test. P=0.262), return to work (53.8 v 72.9 days, student t test, p=0.079) for those with a below-knee walking plaster at six week. There were minimal differences between the groups in the loss of dorsal range of movement (14.7 v 13.1 degree) or in the overall clinical results at the first follow up. But the differences disappeared in any evaluation after three months. Both treatments were considered to be satisfactory and the treatment choice depends on the ability to mobilize or weight bearing, the type of work and personal preference. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v7i1.5972 JCMSN 2011; 7(1): 40-46

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Association of Bleeding Disorders and Risk of Complications Following Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of the Ankle

Foot & Ankle International ◽

10.1177/10711007211058163 ◽

2021 ◽

pp. 107110072110581

Author(s):

Alisa Malyavko ◽

Theodore Quan ◽

William T. Stoll ◽

Joseph E. Manzi ◽

Alex Gu ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Risk Factors ◽

Postoperative Complications ◽

Internal Fixation ◽

Operative Treatment ◽

Ankle Fracture ◽

Open Reduction ◽

Bleeding Disorder ◽

Ankle Fractures ◽

Bleeding Disorders ◽

Increased Risk

Background: Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the ankle is a common procedure performed to correct ankle fractures in many different patient populations. Diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and osteoporosis have been identified as risk factors for postoperative complications following surgery for ankle fractures. To date, there have not been any studies evaluating postoperative outcomes in patients with bleeding disorders undergoing operative treatment for ankle fractures. The aim of this study was to determine the postoperative complication rate following ORIF of the ankle in patients with a bleeding disorder vs those without a bleeding disorder. Methods: From 2006 to 2018, patients undergoing operative treatment for ankle fracture were identified in the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Two patient cohorts were defined: patients with a bleeding disorder and patients without a bleeding disorder. Patients who underwent either inpatient or outpatient ORIF of the ankle were included in this study. In this analysis, demographics, medical comorbidities, and postoperative complications variables were assessed between the 2 cohorts. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Results: Of 10 306 patients undergoing operative treatment for ankle fracture, 9909 patients (96.1%) had no bleeding disorder whereas 397 patients (3.9%) had a bleeding disorder. Following adjustment on multivariate analysis, compared to patients who did not have a bleeding disorder, those with a bleeding disorder had an increased risk of any postoperative complications (odds ratio [OR] 1.48, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-2.08, P = .024), requirement for postoperative blood transfusion (OR 2.86, 95% CI 1.53-5.36, P = .001), and extended length of hospital stay greater than 5 days (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.10-1.93, P = .010). Conclusion: Patients with bleeding disorders are associated with increased risk of postoperative complications following ORIF for ankle fractures. Determining patient risk factors and creating optimal preoperative and perioperative management plans in patients with bleeding disorders undergoing ORIF can be beneficial in reducing postoperative complications, improving patient outcomes, and reducing overall morbidity. Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective cohort study.

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Timing of Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Ankle Fractures

Foot & Ankle Orthopaedics ◽

10.1177/2473011417s000388 ◽

2017 ◽

Vol 2 (3) ◽

pp. 2473011417S0003

Author(s):

Direk Tantigate ◽

J. Turner Vosseller ◽

Justin Greisberg ◽

Benjamin Ascherman ◽

Christina Freibott ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Internal Fixation ◽

Functional Outcome ◽

Functional Outcomes ◽

Ankle Fracture ◽

Open Reduction ◽

Demographic Variables ◽

Ankle Fractures ◽

Significant Difference ◽

The Mean

Category: Ankle, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Unstable ankle fractures are typically treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for stabilization in an effort to ultimately prevent post-traumatic arthritis. It is not uncommon for operative treatment to be performed as an outpatient in the ambulatory surgery setting several days to a couple weeks after the injury to facilitate things from a scheduling perspective. It is unclear what effect this delay has on functional outcome. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of delayed operative treatment by comparing the functional outcomes for groups of patients based on the amount of time between the injury and surgery. Methods: A retrospective chart review of 122 ankle fracture patients who were surgically treated by ORIF over a three year period was performed. All ankle fracture patients older than 18 years with a minimum of 24 months of follow-up were included. A total of 61 patients were included for this study. Three patients were excluded; 2 patients had an open injury and 1 patient presented with a delayed union. Demographic data, comorbidities, injury characteristics, duration from injury to surgery, operative time, length of postoperative stay, complications and functional outcomes were recorded. Functional outcome was determined by Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) at the latest follow-up visit. Comparison of demographic variables and the subcategory of FAOS including symptoms, pain, activities of daily living (ADL), sport activity and quality of life (QOL) was performed between patient underwent ORIF less than 14 days after injury and 14 days or greater. Results: A total of 58 patients were included in this study. Thirty-six patients (62.1%) were female. The mean age of patients was 48.14 ± 16.84 years (19-84 years). The mean follow-up time was 41.48 ± 12.25 months (24-76 months). The duration between injury and operative fixation in the two groups was 7 ± 3 days (<14 days) and 18 ± 3 days (>14 days), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in demographic variables, comorbidities, injury characteristics, or length of operation. Each subcategory of FAOS demonstrated no statistically significant difference between these two groups. (Table 1) Additionally, further analysis for the delayed fixation more than 7 days and 10 days also revealed no significant difference of FAOS. Conclusion: Open reduction and internal fixation of ankle fracture more than 14 days does not significantly diminish functional outcome according to FAOS. Delay of ORIF for ankle fractures does not play a significant role in the long-term functional outcome.

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Is postoperative non-weight-bearing necessary? INWN Study protocol for a pragmatic randomised multicentre trial of operatively treated ankle fracture

Trials ◽

10.1186/s13063-021-05319-0 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 22 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Ramy Khojaly ◽

Ruairí Mac Niocaill ◽

Muhammad Shahab ◽

Matthew Nagle ◽

Colm Taylor ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Ankle Fracture ◽

Multicentre Trial ◽

Short Form ◽

Plantar Flexion ◽

Weight Bearing ◽

Ankle Fractures ◽

Hospital Length Of Stay ◽

Complication Rates ◽

Fracture Patterns ◽

Randomised Controlled

Abstract Background Postoperative management regimes vary following open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of unstable ankle fractures. There is an evolving understanding that extended periods of immobilisation and weight-bearing limitation may lead to poorer clinical outcomes. Traditional non-weight-bearing cast immobilisation may prevent loss of fixation, and this practice continues in many centres. The purpose of this trial is to investigate the safety and efficacy of immediate weight-bearing (IWB) and range of motion (ROM) exercise regimes following ORIF of unstable ankle fractures with a particular focus on functional outcomes and complication rates. Methods A pragmatic randomised controlled multicentre trial, comparing IWB in a walking boot and ROM within 24 h versus non-weight-bearing (NWB) and immobilisation in a cast for 6 weeks, following ORIF of all types of unstable adult ankle fractures (lateral malleolar, bimalleolar, trimalleolar with or without syndesmotic injury) is proposed. All patients presenting to three trauma units will be included. The exclusion criteria will be skeletal immaturity and tibial plafond fractures. The three institutional review boards have granted ethical approval. The primary outcome measure will be the functional Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS). Secondary outcomes include wound infection (deep and superficial), displacement of osteosynthesis, the full arc of ankle motion (plantar flexion and dorsal flection), RAND-36 Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) scoring, time to return to work and postoperative hospital length of stay. The trial will be reported in accordance with the CONSORT statement for reporting a pragmatic trial, and this protocol will follow the SPIRIT guidance. Discussion Traditional management of operatively treated ankle fractures includes an extended period of non-weight-bearing. There is emerging evidence that earlier weight-bearing may have equivocal outcomes and favourable patient satisfaction but higher wound-related complications. These studies often preclude more complicated fracture patterns or patient-related factors. To our knowledge, immediate weight-bearing (IWB) following ORIF of all types of unstable ankle fractures has not been investigated in a controlled prospective manner in recent decades. This pragmatic randomised-controlled multicentre trial will investigate immediate weight-bearing following ORIF of all ankle fracture patterns in the usual care condition. It is hoped that these results will contribute to the modern management of ankle fractures. Trial registration ISRCTN Registry ISRCTN76410775. Retrospectively registered on 30 June 2019.

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Predisposing Factors for Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis After Malleolus Fracture Fixation in Patients Younger Than 50 Years

Foot & Ankle International ◽

10.1177/10711007211050039 ◽

2021 ◽

pp. 107110072110500

Author(s):

Jong Seok Beak ◽

Yeong Tae Kim ◽

Sung Hyun Lee

Keyword(s):

Risk Factors ◽

Articular Surface ◽

Binary Logistic Regression ◽

Ankle Fractures ◽

Fracture Dislocation ◽

Posttraumatic Arthritis ◽

Level Of Evidence ◽

Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis ◽

Posterior Malleolus

Background: The purpose of this study was to identify the risk factors for posttraumatic osteoarthritis (OA) after surgery for ankle fractures in patients aged ≤50 years. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent surgery for ankle fractures and were followed up for a minimum period of 5 years. The patients were assigned to 2 groups according to the presence of advanced OA at the last follow-up. Binary logistic regression was used to model the correlation between risk factors and OA. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score. Results: The data of 332 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included in the analysis. The overall rate of posttraumatic arthritis was 27.7% (nonarthritis group: 240 patients, arthritis group: 92 patients). The arthritic change was significantly affected by BMI (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29-19.76; adjusted odds ratio [OR] ≥ 30, 6.56), fracture-dislocation injury (CI 1.66-11.57; adjusted OR, 4.06), posterior malleolus (PM) fracture (CI 1.92-12.73, adjusted OR > 25% of the articular surface, 5.72), and postoperative articular incongruence (CI 1.52-18.10; adjusted OR, 7.21). The mean scores of the arthritis group were lower than those in the nonarthritis group ( P < .05). Conclusion: Obesity, fracture-dislocation injury, concomitant large PM fracture, and articular incongruence were risk factors of posttraumatic OA after surgery for ankle fractures. Surgeons should be aware that accurate reduction is critical in patients with ankle fractures with associated large PM fractures, especially those with obesity or severe initial injuries such as fracture-dislocation. Level of Evidence: Level III, case control study.

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Factors Affecting the Clinical Outcomes of Surgically Treated Ankle Fractures Associated with the Posterior Malleolar Fragment

Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association ◽

10.7547/18-184 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 111 (5) ◽

Author(s):

Mehmet Kuyumcu ◽

Emre Bilgin ◽

Hasan Bombacı

Keyword(s):

Clinical Outcomes ◽

Fragment Size ◽

Statistical Significance ◽

Ankle Fractures ◽

Foot And Ankle ◽

Ankle Osteoarthritis ◽

Posterior Malleolus ◽

Significant Difference ◽

Functional Scores ◽

The Mean

Background This study was performed to determine the factors that influence the clinical outcomes of surgically treated ankle fractures associated with the posterior malleolus (PM). Methods We evaluated 42 fractures of 42 patients. Posterior malleolus fracture size was calculated using computed tomography. Posterior malleolar fractures with a size less than 10% were left nonfixated. The decision for larger fragments was performed using fluoroscopy following the fixation of other components. If the joint was found to be congruent, the PM was left nonfixated. Otherwise, the PM was reduced and fixated. Clinical outcomes were evaluated based on Weber, Freiburg, and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society scores. Ankle osteoarthritis was determined according to the Canadian Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society classification. The effect of PM fixation, age, PM fragment size, waiting period before surgery, presence of ankle dislocation, and number of injured malleoli on clinical outcomes were assessed. Statistical significance was set at a value of P < .05. Results The mean patients age was 48.5 ± 14.9 years (range, 20–84 years) and the mean follow-up was 23.7 ± 8.6 months (range, 12–56 months). Fixation of the PM was performed solely in 12 patients. Postoperative displacement of the PM and articular step were less than 2 mm in all fractures. Statistically significant worse outcomes were demonstrated based on functional scores in the patients with a PM size greater than or equal to 25% (P = .042, P = .038, and P = .048, respectively) and in patients aged 60 years or older (P = .005, P = .007, and P = .018, respectively). However, there was no significant difference between functional scores and the other factors. Ankle osteoarthritis was observed at a higher rate in patients with PM size greater than or equal to 25% and in patients aged 60 years or older. Conclusions Clinical outcomes of the patients are mainly influenced by the patient's age and PM fragment size. However, if the tibiotalar joint is congruent, comparable results can be obtained in PM fixated or nonfixated patients.

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The Development of Heterotopic Ossification Following Ankle Fracture Syndesmotic Screw Fixation

Foot & Ankle Orthopaedics ◽

10.1177/2473011419s00441 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 4 (4) ◽

pp. 2473011419S0044

Author(s):

Benjamin R. Williams ◽

Paul M. Lafferty

Keyword(s):

Risk Factors ◽

Heterotopic Ossification ◽

Ankle Fracture ◽

Screw Fixation ◽

Low Energy ◽

Ankle Fractures ◽

Factors Associated ◽

Syndesmotic Screw ◽

The Mean

Category: Ankle, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Syndesmotic fixation with screws is commonly used for ankle fractures with syndesmotic disruption. Few studies have reported the development of heterotopic ossification (HO) within the syndesmosis following ankle injuries, which may lead to abnormal joint kinematics and even joint synostosis. However, there is little data on the prevalence and on the risk factors associated with the development of HO. The purpose of this study is to determine the (1) prevalence and (2) risk factors associated with the development of HO within the distal tibiofibular syndesmosis following ankle fractures requiring syndesmotic fixation. We hypothesized that screws within the syndesmosis articulation and broken screws would be associated with a higher incidence of HO than extraarticular and intact screws, respectively. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted for patients who sustained an ankle fracture with syndesmotic disruption. Inclusion criteria: age between 18 and 65 years old, a closed ankle fracture treated operatively with syndesmotic screw fixation. Exclusion criteria: additional lower extremity injury, history of prior ankle fracture, lack of radiographic follow-up and fixation other than 1 or 2 syndesmosis screws. Medical records were reviewed for: age, sex, high or low energy injury mechanism, smoking status, diabetes, BMI, perioperative complications, and further procedures. Fractures were classified by Lauge-Hansen and Weber systems. Immediate postoperative radiographs were reviewed for the number of syndesmotic screws, whether screws were intraarticular or extraarticular and the number of cortices each screw crossed. Final postoperative radiographs were reviewed for retention or screw removal and the presence of HO. The presence of HO was defined as new or increased bone formation within the syndesmosis compared to immediate postoperative radiographs. Results: Included were 264 patients, mean radiographic follow-up of 10.5+/-10.2 months. The mean age was 39.2+/-12.6 years (38.7% female) with a mean BMI of 32.1+/-7.8. Current smokers made up 39.4% of patients and 10.6% were diabetic. The mean time to fracture fixation was 12.6+/-3.2 days and 198 patients (75%) had a low energy injury. There was no significant difference in HO formation for demographics, injury mechanism or time to fixation. Overall, HO developed in 160 patients (60.6%). There was no difference, additionally for fracture pattern, number screws or fixation construct (Table 1). HO developed in 92% of broken, 75% of loose and 44% of intact screws (P<0.001). Screws were removed in 107 patients (40.5%) with no difference in HO formation compared to patients with intact screws. Conclusion: Heterotopic ossification is commonplace following screw fixation for syndesmotic injuries with a prevalence of 60.6%. Broken screws and loosened screws are a significant risk factor for the development of HO. However, no other risk factors in this study were found to be associated with the development of HO, including intraarticular syndesmotic screw placement. Patients should be counseled on the prevalence although further research is needed to determine the effect on ankle motion and progression of post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

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Screw Fixation of the Posterior Malleolus Fragment in Ankle Fracture: Cadaveric and Clinical Studies

Foot & Ankle Orthopaedics ◽

10.1177/2473011419s00267 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 4 (4) ◽

pp. 2473011419S0026

Author(s):

Gisoo Lee ◽

Chan Kang ◽

Yougun Won ◽

Jae Hwang Song ◽

Byungki Cho

Keyword(s):

Clinical Outcomes ◽

Ankle Fracture ◽

Screw Fixation ◽

Articular Surface ◽

Cannulated Screw ◽

Ankle Fractures ◽

Neutral Position ◽

Early Recovery ◽

Malleolar Fracture ◽

Posterior Malleolus

Category: Ankle, Trauma Introduction/Purpose: Previously, a posterior malleolus fragment (PMF) covering 25–30% of the articular surface was a known indication for surgical fixation for ankle fractures. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of screw fixation for PMF comprising <25% of the articular surface and to evaluate the results of cadaver experiments. Methods: The clinical study enrolled ankle fracture patients with PMFs who planned to undergo surgery between March 2014 and February 2017. Among them, 62 with type 1 PMF comprising <25% of the articular surface were included: 32 patients underwent cannulated screw fixation for PMF after fixation for lateral and/or medial malleolar fracture (A group), whereas the other 30 patients underwent internal fixation for lateral and/or medial malleolar fracture but no screw fixation (B group). Clinical outcomes were determined at the 3-, 6-, 12-, and 18-month visits. Additionally, cadaver studies were conducted to evaluate cannulated screw fixation or no fixation in cases of PMFs comprising <25% of the articular surface and >1 mm displacement. Ankle joint stability was measured under external torque on the ankle in the neutral position. The level of significance was set at P < .05. Results: Clinical outcomes at 6 and 12 months after surgery were significantly higher in group A than in group B. However, there was no significant intergroup difference in clinical outcomes at 18 months of follow-up. In the cadaver study, PMF screw fixations were significantly more stable under external rotation force. Conclusion: Screw fixation was significantly useful during early recovery and in short-term clinical outcomes owing to stabilization of ankle fractures with PMF involving <25% of the articular surface.

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